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As its almost impossible for us to list real models covering all the many different airlines that use this type of aircraft we are offering to make as a scale replica model of what you see in the first image above and in the dimensions shown in the listing.
To give you confidence in what you will receive there follows below an image of a similar type of model to the one advertised that we have made before which shows you the detail and quality of finish that we achieve.
"You never really own a PlaneArts - you merely look after it for the next generation"
The dimensions of the model we will make of the aircraft depicted in the image at the top of this page (first image in the thumbnail section) will be as follows:
LENGTH:15.50 INCHES (39.40 CM),WINGSPAN:14.40 INCHES (36.60 CM),SCALE:1:100 (1/100)
does not allow us to offer variations of size or scale in one listing but if you would like to see an example of the next smaller size or scale model you can do so by clicking on the link below.
Convair CV-880 TWA Trans World Airplane Desk Wood New Model Smaller Scale 1/130
Other sizes and scales apart from the two above (or other model types) available upon request - just message us for more info.
This model replica is painstakingly hand carved and then hand painted out of solid kiln dried mahogany wood(from renewable sources) by our highly experienced and talented craftsmen at our Filipino owned factory near the original Clark Air Base in Pampanga and takes about 9-10 weeks to manufacture. Production in our factory is supervised by our own resident British Pilot who ensures that exact blueprints are used for these meticulously detailed scale models custom manufactured and precisely engineered to your exact specifications and that will be cherished by all.
The model will be exactly as you see in the above image of the real aircraft and not the example we show below of a similar model we have made before. In terms of detailing (doors, windows, lights, control surface markings, antennas etc.) and livery or markings will follow the real aircraft image so we would kindly ask you to study the images very carefully (if you require higher resolution images please ask) to make sure that the model as you see is the 100% the same version you require or expect. We request your understanding on this matter due to the fact that these handmade models are traveling in many cases halfway around the world and any misunderstandings or mistaken expectations must be addressed at this as point of time as we cannot be held responsible for the costs involved in returning and replacing the model. The model will be shipped with the stand you see in the images although you may request if you like to change to either 1, 6 or 7 as in the attached image examples (just message us if a change is required).
It is our aim to continue to be a "sustainable" manufacturer avoiding the use of man-made materials wherever possible such as plastics, resins or metal in an attempt to reduce our Carbon Footprint and to protect our environment for generations to come. Our models are "works of art" and not to be confused with mass made plastic kits or diecast (die cast) look-alikes. We are proud Filipino's exporting to all parts of the globe and creating employment opportunities in an impoverished part of our country.
100% handmade models naturally come at a higher price than off the shelf, plastic or diecast (die cast) models but it may interest you to know that an average regular size fixed wing or helicopter model takes on average a total of 26 dedicated Man Hours of work to produce. During this time the model transitions through over 40 different manufacturing stages and processes. The 26 hours are not consecutive and require in-between many days (and in some cases weeks) of drying and curing time as they pass from one department to another making the overall production time from an outsiders point of view appear rather lengthy. Given these facts the time period we quote for production alone is very standard for our type of industry and among our close competitors. If you are interested in what goes into making these models, there follows a summary process schedule and video. Please click on the image below to start the video which will open in a separate page in your browser (the tab on in your browser for this page will still stay open so you can go back to the listing):-
PlaneArts Manufacturing Process
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The fully assembled model comes with a stained solid mahogany (or mahogany with steel arm) stand and is ready to display on your desk, bookcase or wherever you desire. The photographs you see have not been manipulated or digitally edited - they are exactly as the model looks in real life, but unfortunately even digital photography cannot do full justice to the look and feel of the model once you receive it!
PlaneArts have been producing models for over 20 years which are honed to perfection by the dexterity of our Skilled Master Craftsmen and carefully checked at all stages of manufacture by our dedicated Quality Assurance Team. We promote internationally on to ensure our products get the best exposure worldwide. Due to a high level of demand and the huge diversity of aircraft types and liveries most models are made to order and take about 9-10 weeks to produce (excluding National and Public Holidays). You will also notice that we offer models often way below the price of other companies advertising on the . We are able do this because of the direct manufacturing and selling basis of our business - models direct from the factory and not from an intermediary or trading / marketing company. All models are shipped internationally through FedEx, UPS or DHL Express Courier (Door to Door worldwide within about 3 business days). Fully traceable and insured against damage or loss).
Apart from those models you see in our store - using your photos or images, we will make you a personalized replica model of your aircraft with your own individual paint scheme, logos, registration number, antennas and all the details that make your airplane special. You can even upgrade and personalize your model with a fully customized transparent interior to match your seats, colors, instrument panel and all other important interior details. Alternatively, we can copy any current or historic commercial or military airplane or helicopter that has ever flown just by giving us images or photos. Each meticulously detailed scale model is custom manufactured and precisely engineered to your exact specifications. We will build you a model that will not only meet your expectations but will go far beyond and with detail that will amaze you!
If you do not see the model you require in our store please message us on with a description and images of what you require including the size or scale of the desired model and we will then do a dedicated listing for you on . Our Customer Service Team will then help you with questions you may have and upon request update you on the status of your order. Our Production Team will work with you personally during construction until your model is ready to taxi on its journey to your own door in its foam fitted heavy duty export packaging.
To watch a video of the professional protective packing of PlaneArts models destined for all parts of the globe, please also click on the image below to start the video which will open in a separate page in your browser (the tab on in your browser for this page will still stay open so you can go back to the listing)
Packing Process
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Convair CV-880 and TWA: A Bold Step in the Jet Age
The Convair CV-880 was a sleek, fast, and ambitious jet airliner designed to compete in the rapidly evolving commercial aviation market of the late 1950s and early 1960s. Trans World Airlines (TWA), one of the major U.S. carriers of the era, incorporated the CV-880 into its fleet as part of its strategy to offer faster and more efficient service on key domestic and international routes. Although the aircraft never achieved the commercial success its manufacturers hoped for, the CV-880 played a notable role in TWA’s transition into the jet age.
The Convair CV-880: Speed and Style
Developed by the Convair division of General Dynamics, the CV-880 was designed to be the fastest narrow-body jet airliner of its time. Its name “880” refers to its top cruising speed of approximately 880 kilometers per hour (about 547 miles per hour), making it one of the fastest commercial aircraft of its generation.
The CV-880 featured four General Electric CJ-805 turbofan engines and a slim, streamlined fuselage optimized for speed rather than passenger capacity. Typically configured to carry around 100 to 110 passengers, the aircraft was smaller than its main competitor, the Boeing 707, but aimed to attract airlines and passengers who valued speed on medium- to long-haul routes.
TWA’s Adoption of the CV-880
Trans World Airlines was among the primary operators of the Convair CV-880. In the late 1950s and early 1960s, TWA sought to expand and modernize its fleet to maintain its position as a leading international airline. The CV-880’s speed was attractive to TWA as it promised shorter flight times on competitive routes, particularly those connecting the United States to Europe and major domestic city pairs.
TWA introduced the CV-880 into service in the early 1960s. The airline used the aircraft on key routes such as New York to Los Angeles, and transcontinental services where speed was a valuable selling point. TWA marketed the CV-880 as a “jetliner of speed” and capitalized on its ability to reduce travel times compared to other airliners.
Performance and Operational Experience
The CV-880 lived up to its promise of speed, often flying faster than its Boeing and Douglas counterparts. However, its relatively small passenger capacity and higher operating costs limited its appeal to airlines focused on efficiency and volume.
For TWA, the CV-880 offered a competitive edge on speed but was challenged by higher fuel consumption and less favorable economics compared to the Boeing 707 and later the Douglas DC-8. Maintenance requirements and operational costs contributed to the aircraft’s relatively short tenure in TWA’s fleet.
Challenges and Retirement
Despite its technological achievements, the CV-880 struggled in the marketplace. Only 65 units were produced, a small number compared to the hundreds of Boeing 707s and Douglas DC-8s sold worldwide. Its limited seating capacity, coupled with high operating costs, made it less attractive as airlines shifted toward larger, more economical jets.
TWA gradually phased out its CV-880s by the late 1960s as newer, more efficient aircraft entered service. The airline replaced them with larger Boeing 707s and later widebody jets such as the Lockheed L-1011 TriStar, which offered better economics and increased passenger comfort.
Legacy of the CV-880 with TWA
While the Convair CV-880 was not a commercial success, it remains an important chapter in the story of early jet aviation. For TWA, the aircraft represented a bold attempt to prioritize speed and innovation in an intensely competitive market.
The CV-880 demonstrated the challenges airlines faced in balancing speed, capacity, and operating costs—issues that continue to shape aircraft development today. For aviation enthusiasts and historians, the CV-880’s sleek design and high-speed capabilities capture the optimism and technological ambition of the early jet age.
Conclusion
The Convair CV-880’s service with Trans World Airlines highlights a fascinating period of transition and competition in commercial aviation. Though ultimately overshadowed by larger and more economical jets, the CV-880 was a remarkable engineering achievement and a testament to Convair’s ambition. TWA’s use of the aircraft helped pave the way for faster, more efficient air travel, even as the industry moved toward larger and more versatile aircraft.
